What is the scientific name of the Big Dipper?

The Big Dipper is part of the constellation Ursa Major, which is Latin for "The Greater Bear." The Big Dipper is an asterism, a pattern of stars that does not constitute a constellation itself but ...
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What is the scientific name for the Big Dipper constellation?

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) assigns official names to astronomical objects. Currently, 88 constellations have been recognized and named by the IAU. The IAU name for the constellation...
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Why is the Big Dipper called the Big Dipper?

The Big Dipper, a cluster of seven stars in the constellation Ursa Major, is one of the most recognized star groups. Ursa Major is "circumpolar," that is, it never sets below the horizon and is vis...
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When can the Big Dipper be seen?

The Big Dipper, part of the Ursa Major constellation (The Great Bear), is at its highest position in the sky and can be best seen in late May/early June. It's one of the most recognizable groups of...
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How did the Big Dipper get its name?

The Big Dipper consists of seven stars visible throughout the year in most of the northern hemisphere. No one person or organization gave it its name. The moniker comes from the commonly held notio...
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